JCP&L uses helicopter inspections to enhance service reliability

JCP&L Helicopter Inspections improve grid reliability with aerial patrols of transmission lines and substations, accelerating maintenance, outage prevention, and repairs through low-hover surveys, high-resolution photos, and rapid reporting to operations across the utility's service territory.

Jersey Central Power & Light JCP&L will be using helicopter patrols beginning March 3, 2014, to conduct transmission line inspections throughout its northern and central New Jersey service areas.

"Completing these routine inspections via helicopter patrols is an effective way to assure our high voltage system remains reliable," said Anthony Hurley, vice president, Operations, JCP&L. "The helicopter can provide workers with a clear view of our overhead equipment far more quickly and easily than workers on the ground using trucks and aerial devices."

JCP&L's transmission lines are patrolled at least twice each year, with related utility pole inspections scheduled regularly as well. The patrols typically take 12 – 15 days to complete, depending on weather and other conditions, such as vegetation management needs, and scheduling requirements. Local law enforcement agencies will be notified before the helicopter inspections take place.

During the inspection process, helicopters will hover low in areas near substations and transmission lines. When an issue is identified, a notification, along with a photograph, is forwarded to the appropriate operations area so the repair can be made.

The aerial transmission line patrols are part of JCP&L's $251 million investment in 2014 to expand and strengthen its infrastructure to enhance reliability of service.

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